Abnormal levels of copper were recently found in NIU’s water after extensive testing was performed in all university buildings.

Robert Albanese, the director of NIU’s Physical Plant, said there are a number of reasons for the elevated levels.

Copper piping in certain buildings contributes to the hazardous levels. Also, the copper tubing used to cool down water in drinking fountains causes a chemical reaction that raises the levels.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, which sets national drinking-water standards, 1.3 milligrams of copper per liter of water is considered to be an acceptable amount. Any amount more than that may cause health problems.

Levels have been observed in NIU’s buildings at 1.8, 2.0 and 2.5 milligrams per liter, Albanese said.

“Steps are being taken to reduce the level to at least 1.3 and well below 1.3,” Albanese said.

Although the body needs copper in small amounts, a person exposed to increased levels of it may experience gastrointestinal distress, nausea or vomiting, according to the EPA’s Web site. The effects of many years of exposure include damage to the liver or kidneys.

“We are very concerned for the safety of students,” Albanese said. “Employees are working around the clock for short-term and long-term solutions.”

NIU gets its water from the city of DeKalb. Albanese said members of NIU’s Physical Plant and environmental health and safety crews are working with the city to see if they can do anything.

Jerry Bever, the assistant director of public works for DeKalb’s Water Resources Division, confirmed Albanese’s claim.

DeKalb and NIU officials have held meetings about the issue. They are jointly collecting and analyzing samples of water to see what they can find out, Bever said.

Bever reported the city itself does not have a problem with its water, but rather NIU’s problem involves water sitting in the pipes for extended periods of time over the summer without any use.

Besides working with the city to find a solution, NIU staffers are installing external filters on drinking fountains to reduce copper levels.

Some drinking fountains have been shut down until filters can be installed, according to a press release issued by the university.

Albanese called it a serious issue and promised to keep the campus updated.